After the Rain...

Dear Reader,

As the song goes... "and rain will make the flowers grow." We've allowed the rain to refresh us. Perhaps, like me, you even jumped in a puddle or two! Maybe, like me, you even danced in the rain. See exhibit A to your left, that was taken last summer during a torrential downpour. When everyone else ran for cover, I ran the OTHER way out into the rain and danced and danced. What an amazing moment; it felt fabulous!

So, what do we do after the rain? That limbo time when clouds still hang in the sky, the rainbow has yet to appear, what do we do until the sun comes?

These uncertain days can actually be the most enlightening ones and the ones that allow us to grow by being present in the moment. Actually FEELING what is happening. Not running to the next ray of sunshine, but allowing ourselves to BE in the clouds. These are the days we can re-group, re-coup and re-charge. WE can just sit and BE.

Imagine that, just sit and BE. Breathe. Notice the inhale and the exhale. Try it for 2 minutes. Focus on the sounds around you; whether that is the chirping of birds in trees or a dog barking in the distance, maybe it's the sound of sirens wailing on the street, or the clicking of computer keys. Wherever you are, take a moment and breathe. Be in the present moment. Don't worry about the past, or fret about the future. As someone once said, "worrying is as useful as trying to solve an algebra problem by chewing gum!"

What is the FREE idea for today? BREATHING! How amazing that we were given the gift of breathing. Really, it sure beats the alternative. So stop for a moment and BREATHE. Even if you are running in 800 directions; a typical day for me, not sure about you, :-) you can still take a few minutes, stop and BREATHE. Maybe you are lucky enough to find some flowers and you can breathe in the fragrance. Reason #453 I love NYC is the plethora of flowers available all year at the local corner shops. Sometimes I walk by late at night and just breathe in the scent and marvel at the brightness of the colors. Doesn't cost me a dime!

Remember to Breathe... seems simple enough, but most of us do it incorrectly. Breathe in and fill your entire body with air, count to ten slowly and then exhale, counting to ten once again. Ah, feels better, doesn't it? And now I am going to listen to Just Be mixed by Tiesto and I am gonna Breathe! Maybe you want to listen to it too?

Hugs,

Kristin